In 2024, Sanatana Dharma experienced a notable resurgence worldwide, with an increasing global appreciation for its spiritual, philosophical, and ethical teachings.
A pivotal moment occurred on 21 December 2024, when Kuwaiti authors Abdulla Al Baroun and Abdul Lateef Al Nesef translated and published the Ramayana and Mahabharata in Arabic. This landmark achievement significantly broadened the accessibility of these foundational texts and deepened understanding of the core values of Sanatana Dharma in the Arab world.
This report highlights 19 key global developments related to Sanatana Dharma in 2024.
#1 Ramayana and Mahabharata Translated Into Arabic
On 21 December 2024, Kuwaiti authors Abdulla Al Baroun and Abdul Lateef Al Nesef completed a significant project by translating and publishing India’s two great epics, the Ramayana and Mahabharata, into Arabic. The project took two years to finish and has been hailed as a pivotal moment for cross-cultural understanding. The translators shared that through this effort, they gained a deeper understanding of Indian culture.
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The Prime Minister of India met with the authors and the publisher, and personally signed the books, further marking the significance of the accomplishment.
#2 Ohio Declares Diwali Holiday For Hindu Students
On 12 December 2024, Ohio became the first state in the United States to officially recognize Diwali, alongside two other Hindu religious holidays, Navaratri and Annakut, as holidays for Hindu students. This landmark decision, announced by an Indian-American Senator, allows students to observe religious celebrations such as Diwali, Navaratri, Pongal, and Durga Puja without academic conflict. The move also highlights the global recognition of Diwali, a public holiday in countries like Fiji, Malaysia, Mauritius, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, South Africa, and Trinidad and Tobago.
#3 Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple Replica In Thailand
A replica of the iconic Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple from Pune has been constructed in Phuket, Thailand. The foundation ceremony for the temple was held in July 2023, and after 15 months of work, the construction has been completed at a cost of ₹9 crore. The temple now houses a consecrated Ganesh Yantra, which has been ceremoniously installed within the idol, marking a significant cultural and spiritual milestone for the Indian community in Thailand.
#4 Australia Declares October As Hindu Heritage Month
On 28 October 2024, Australia officially declared October as Hindu Heritage Month to celebrate the cultural diversity, heritage, and traditions of the Hindu community across the country. The month highlights important Hindu festivals such as Navaratri, Dussehra, Diwali, and Sharad Purnima. This declaration reaffirms Australia’s commitment to multiculturalism and recognizes the significant contributions of the Hindu community to the social and cultural fabric of the nation. It also aims to foster a deeper understanding of Hindu philosophy, rituals, and values.
#5 Milestone for the Hindu Community In Narowal, Pakistan
On 25 October 2024, a budget of 10 million Pakistani rupees (₹30 lakh) was allocated for the reconstruction of the Baoli Sahib Hindu temple in Zafarwal, Narowal. This marks the beginning of restoration efforts after 64 years of inactivity. The district lacks Hindu temples, leaving the community to conduct religious rituals at home or travel to nearby cities like Sialkot and Lahore for worship. This initiative represents a significant step forward for the Hindu community in the region.
#6 North Carolina Celebrates Hindu Heritage Month During Diwali
On 25 October 2024, devotees in Morrisville, North Carolina, celebrated Deepavali at a newly built temple, celebrating Hindu Heritage Month. Governor Roy Cooper visited the temple to sign a proclamation recognizing the importance of Diwali. The event focused on the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Governor Cooper acknowledged the valuable contributions of Indian Americans in fields like education, science, arts, and business. Morrisville Mayor TJ Cawley also highlighted the role of the Indian American community in making the town one of the “fifth best places to live in the USA,” emphasizing unity among diverse groups.
#7 North Carolina Declares October as Hindu Heritage Month
On 24 October 2024, Governor Roy Cooper of North Carolina declared October as Hindu Heritage Month. This declaration celebrates the cultural, philosophical, and community contributions of Hindu Dharma in the state. Governor Cooper highlighted Hinduism as the third-largest religion globally, emphasizing its role in fostering individual peace and spiritual awakening for millions of followers in the US.
#8 ₹155 Crore Project To Highlight Ahmedabad’s Temple Heritage
On 19 October 2024, the Gujarat State Urban Development Department (UDD) and Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) launched the ₹155.02 crore Temple Link Project to showcase the rich temple heritage of Ahmedabad. The initiative will connect nearly 35 ancient temples, including the Saptarshi No Aaro, Jagannath Temple, Somnath Bhudar Aaro (Jal Yatra route), Mahalaxmi Temple, and more. The project aims to preserve and highlight the city’s historical and cultural significance through these sacred sites.
#9 Siddheshwari Temple Inaugurated In West Tripura
On 16 September 2024, the Siddheshwari Temple was inaugurated in West Tripura, symbolizing the completion of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya after 500 years of efforts. The temple’s inauguration represents a commitment to preserving heritage and fostering unity within the Hindu community. The event also celebrated the beautification of the Maa Tripura Sundari Temple, strengthening the cultural and spiritual ties within the region.
#10 Statue Of Union: North America’s Tallest Tribute To Lord Hanuman
On 21 August 2024, the Statue of Union, a 90-foot-tall statue of Lord Hanuman, was unveiled at the Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Texas, making it the tallest statue of Lord Hanuman in North America. The statue is a tribute to strength, devotion, and selfless service, symbolizing Lord Hanuman’s role in uniting Sri Rama with Sita. It stands as a powerful embodiment of loyalty and dedication to the values of Sanatana Dharma.
#11 Ram Katha At United Nations Celebrates Universal Brotherhood
On 30 July 2024, Morari Bapu’s Ram Katha at the United Nations captivated a diverse audience, emphasizing the universal brotherhood taught in the Ram Charita Manas by Goswami Tulsidas. The event was marked by a special message from New York Mayor Eric Adams, acknowledging Morari Bapu’s global influence and the growing appreciation of Indian culture. The event’s timing coincided with the celebration of Diwali as a school holiday in New York, reflecting the city’s increasing recognition of Indian heritage.
#12 Temple Reopened In Anantnag, Kashmir After 34 Years
On 15 July 2024, the ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Uma Bhagwati in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, was reopened after 34 years. The idol of Goddess Uma, brought from Rajasthan, was consecrated during the reopening ceremony. The temple, once a popular pilgrimage site for devotees across the region, symbolizes a new chapter for religious harmony and cultural restoration in Kashmir.
#13 Hindus and Muslims Unite In Worship After 30 Years In Pulwama
On 11 June 2024, the Barari Mauj Temple in Murran village, Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, was reopened after 30 years. Pandits who had fled the village in 1989 returned to find their properties intact and were warmly welcomed by the Muslim community during the religious ceremony. This historic event marked a joyous return and symbolized religious unity and mutual respect between Hindus and Muslims in the region.
#14 PM Modi Inaugurates Bhoomi Pujan For Kalki Dham Temple
On 19 February 2024, Prime Minister Modi laid the foundation stone for the Shri Kalki Dham temple in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. The inauguration ties into a broader narrative of development, as it coincides with the launch of numerous projects aimed at enhancing the region’s infrastructure and economy. The temple will serve as a spiritual and cultural center, contributing to the growth of Sanatana Dharma.
#15 World’s First Om-Shaped Shiva Temple Completed In Rajasthan
On 19 February 2024, the world’s first Om-shaped four-story Shiva temple was completed in Pali district, Rajasthan. The temple, covering 250 acres, features 1008 statues and 108 chambers named after Shiva. It was consecrated in the presence of Rajasthan’s chief minister. This temple not only honors Lord Shiva but also provides a space for meditation and spiritual reflection, integrating ancient architectural techniques with modern sensibilities.
#16 Abu Dhabi’s First Hindu Temple Inaugurated
On 14 February 2024, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchmi. The Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Mandir stands 108 feet tall and spans 27 acres. This architectural marvel incorporates advanced technology, including 300 sensors, and showcases intricate carvings that depict stories from Hindu texts and other cultural narratives, symbolizing unity among diverse faiths.
#17 Ram Temple Inaugurated In Odisha
On 22 January 2024, a new Ram temple was inaugurated in Fategarh, Odisha. Standing at a height of 165 feet, the temple was built with contributions from villagers and devotees across the state. The temple, constructed in the traditional Odia style, echoes the architectural grandeur of iconic temples like Tara Tarini and Konark. Its completion after seven years of dedicated work highlights the local community’s commitment to preserving their cultural and religious heritage.
#18 The Consecration of the Ram Mandir In Ayodhya
On 22 January 2024, the Pran Pratistha ceremony for the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya was held, marking a historic moment for Hindus worldwide. The idol of Lord Ram Lalla was consecrated within the temple, signifying the fulfilment of a long-held dream. The temple, constructed using traditional materials like pink sandstone, stands as a testament to faith, tradition, and renewal, welcoming a new era for the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
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